Automated safe flight vehicle

Abstract

Control systems and methods of use provide for fully automated phases of flight of an aircraft. Such fully automated phases include takeoff, cruising flight, and landing without the need for operator input or other operator intervention. Control systems and methods also provide for self-limited compliance with an operators desired deviation from a predetermined flight path, as well as automatic contingency response to non-normal conditions. Onboard and / or ground-based operators may cooperate with the control system in order to control the associated aircraft. Furthermore, an operator need not have any flight skill in order to affect changes in the flight path or other aspects of flight control.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The field of the present disclosure relates to aircraft control systems, and more specifically, systems that fully automate aircraft travel such that dependence upon trained pilot skill is unnecessary.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Aircraft vehicles that carry passengers and / or appreciable amounts of cargo are presently operated by an onboard human flight crew. In fact, most flight situations involve at least a pilot and co-pilot onboard the aircraft operating from the cockpit area. Such manned flight is still subject to human error despite the high levels of costly training and skill that these flight control personnel typically possess.[0003]A number of present automation systems exist to provide advisory information, automate certain tasks, and generally relieve the flight crew of some burdens. Examples of such systems include ground collision warning systems, stall warning systems, air traffic advisory and avoidance systems, and automated flight man...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present disclosure is about flight control systems and methods that can automate all phases of flight without needing an operator to handle it. These systems are always operational and safe, and can be used for fully automated passenger and cargo flights. This results in lower costs and improved safety, as there will be no need for skilled personnel on board the aircraft. In addition, these systems can help prevent accidents and reduce training requirements for flight crew. In a military context, these systems can allow non-pilots to operate aircraft and free up onboard personnel for other mission requirements.

Problems solved by technology

Such manned flight is still subject to human error despite the high levels of costly training and skill that these flight control personnel typically possess.

Automated systems such as those exemplified above, as well as other complexities of modern aircraft, compound the ongoing training requirements of flight crew personnel.

Additionally, medical qualifications, age, and / or other concerns contribute to the cost of maintaining an adequate pool of qualified flight operations talent.

Known flight crew advisement and control systems are insufficient in view of desired levels of flight safety and automation.

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